Middle School News - American Overseas School of Rome

AOSR - VIA CASSIA 811
Phone: 06.33438.1
Web: WWW.AOSR.ORG
March 2009
AOSR Students
On the Move...
Caroline D. on
President’s Day
5th Grade Celebrates
Black History Month
See more about the Elementary School inside, p. 11-13
AOSR Boys’ Basketball Takes Second Place in
European DoDDS Championships
CONGRATULATIONS!
See article on Page 21
Pre-K Chipmunks and Ducks
are busy, inside and outside
of the classroom
Middle School Goes to the Slopes!
See article on Page 15
See story Page 10
Contents
News from the Head of School
3
Middle School News
15 - 16
Board of Trustees
4
Counselor’s Corner
17 - 18
All School News
5-8
Tech Bytes
18
Community Service Project
9
Sports
19
PTO
10
Il Foro
20 - 21
Pre-K
11
Contact Information
Elementary News
12 - 14
1Calendar
22
23
AOSR Alumni and Friends Gatherings
February, 2009
New York City, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Chicago!
2
Head of School Updates
by Dr. Beth Pfannl,
I also attended a meeting of the Academy of International
School Heads (AISH). An uplifting and very informative
gathering of school heads, all of us facing the same issues
with regards to the worldwide economic situation. It was
good to know that we are right on target with everything
we are doing.
During the month of February, I had the wonderful
opportunity to welcome AOSR alumni and friends at four
different gatherings held throughout the United States
(NYC, San Francisco, Philadelphia and Chicago). Some
of the alumni who attended had not been involved with
the school for many years and were very excited to
reconnect and happy to hear about this new outreach.
Many shared the fond memories that they hold of their
teachers at AOSR and how they influenced their lives. It
was very moving to listen to the many stories.
I also had an opportunity to meet with Dr. Beatrice
Cameron, from the US Department of State’s Office of
Overseas Schools regarding our school grant and support
for other programs, positions, and consultants. It is
through her office that we secured the Technology Audit
that will take place next month at our school.
Each gathering was very different because of the people
who attended. At the first three reunions, architects from
H2L2 were present. They shared some of the ideas about
how to upgrade and improve school facilities with the
attendees.
At all receptions there were people
representing every decade that the school has been in
existence which was really exciting! We are very grateful
to the American Academy in Rome for hosting our event
in their offices in NYC; to AOSR alumni Zane Gresham
(’66) for welcoming us at his law firm in San Francisco;
to H2L2 for use of their space in Philadelphia and to
former AOSR teacher Lori Tibbitt for inviting us to use
her office space in Chicago.
At the 43rd Annual AAIE Conference in San Francisco, I
was elected president of the organization. I will serve as
president elect until 2010 and then take on the new
position (a volunteer position). The Association for the
Advancement of International Education “is a dynamic
global community providing a forum for the exchange of
ideas and research concerning development in the field of
international education and school leadership and to
advance international education through partnerships with
educational institutions and associations worldwide.”
Membership includes school heads and other
administrators, university professors and representatives,
international school counselors and teachers, U.S. State
Department Officials, and others who wish to promote
international education through participation in its global
forum. Close to 500 people attended the conference in
San Francisco last week. AOSR is clearly recognized
around the world as a leading international school and this
is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our
faculty and staff!
While in the US, I attended two recruiting fairs and
interviewed dozens of teacher candidates. I am able to be
very selective as we are very fortunate to have so many
teachers interested in working at our school.
In San Francisco, I attended a day long meeting of the
Middle States International Schools Advisory Committee.
We reviewed dozens of applications of overseas schools
seeking accreditation or re-accreditation; a very
worthwhile professional development experience for me.
AOSR – AUR Alliance
Further to the cooperation agreement between our School and the American University of Rome
signed in February 2008, we are pleased to confirm the following commitments that were agreed upon
with AUR President Dr. Robert Marino:
• AUR will offer special scholarships for AOSR graduates as follows:
One 50% tuition scholarship designated jointly by the Head of AOSR and the President of AUR from all applicants
25% off tuition for any AOSR graduate that qualifies for admission to AUR
Awardees of either type to be designated “Presidential Scholars” and eligible to be
renewed as long as they maintain a B average or better
•
AUR will offer benefits for AOSR faculty as follows:
Access to AUR library upon registration with AUR library
50% off tuition for courses taken at AUR
The above are agreed on a three year, renewable basis beginning March 2009.
3
Board of Trustees
Community Building at AOSR
by Richard Pinto
Community Development and Fundraising Committee, Chair
Previous editions of the Falcon Flyer have
explained in detail projects beginning this
summer to make the gymnasium complex
and the Hillside Theater both safer and
more useful as functional learning spaces.
While the current economic downturn
means we must be modest in the capital
improvement projects we undertake, the
gym and theater efforts represent the
beginning of what we hope will be a
sustained revitalization of the AOSR
campus.
relies on, and is very grateful for, the
efforts of the many dedicated parents,
faculty, alumni and friends who contribute
their valuable time, energy and resources
for events like our recent, highly
successful, Fashion Show, our annual
Mayfair celebration and fundraising dinner
dances and Galas.
We count on the fundraising support of our
community, especially in a tough
economic environment.
On the Community Development and
Fundraising Committee, we continue to
seek ways to reach out – not just to the
Rome-based AOSR community, but also
to those former students, friends and
families scattered around the world who
value their AOSR experience and care
about our school’s future.
We have
upgraded our web site and are working on
ideas to help our alumni stay plugged in to
the many positive activities taking place at
our school.
Upgrading AOSR’s physical plant focuses
on Strategic Goal #10 of the school’s
Strategic Plan: “the AOSR campus will be
commensurate with the best American
international schools.” Now, working with
international-school specialists H2L2
Architects, we have developed for the first
time a comprehensive roadmap to guide
i n f r a s t r u c t u r e m a i n t e n a n c e a nd
development into the future.
The
“Facilities Master Plan” begins with an in
depth review of the AOSR campus and
lays out in an organized way the
improvements necessary to maximize
safety and optimize space utilization,
starting with the most basic and
inexpensive and progressing towards
optional long-term, relatively large-scale
undertakings. The Board of Trustees will
be reviewing the final draft of the
Facilities Master Plan, and looks forward
to sharing it with the school community
shortly.
Recently the head of school, Dr. Pfannl,
took advantage of her annual recruiting
trip to host alumni gatherings in New
York, Philadelphia, Chicago and San
Francisco. H2L2 Architects joined her at
these events and presented some of the
projects contained in the Facilities Master
Plan, generating widespread interest and
excitement among our US-based alumni.
It is worth noting that all of the reception
venues and catering costs were donated by
generous alums and friends of AOSR, and
resulted in a number of donations and
pledges!
Funding for AOSR’s infrastructure
projects, such as the gym and theater work,
are funded in part by the one-time Capital
Assessment new families pay when they
first enroll at AOSR.
However, an
important and growing portion of the
funding comes from generous donations
and the proceeds of numerous fundraisers
held here throughout the year. The school
We are determined to make AOSR the best
it can be. Your continued participation in
our ongoing Capital Campaign - as a
donor, sponsor or simply a fundraising
volunteer – is vitally important. With all
of us working together, AOSR will
continue on its road to excellence.
4
All School News
2nd Quarter Honor Rolls
Headmaster's Honor Roll
GRADE 9
GRADE 11
Claire A
Indrani K.
GRADE 10
GRADE 12
Elisa E.
Ellen F.
Lisa B.
Yorai N.
Lisa Y.
Syed M. H.
Dominic M.
Principal's Honor Roll
GRADE 9
GRADE 11
Ye C.
Danielle M.
Eva E. P.
Flaminia M.
Tigist D.
Franziska N.
Carmen F.
Alexander T.
Sophie F.
Cody R.
Jere H.
Tair S.
Monica X.
Emma J.
GRADE 10
GRADE 12
Leila B.
Robert L.
Maria Ilena A.
Lorenzo M.
Natascha B.
Stuart L.
Kaela B.
Enrico O.
Rocco C.
Trevor M.
Dario C.
Aditya P.
Flavi C.
Piyush N.
Tara D.
Sage R.
Francesco C.
Pier Giorgio R.
Martino G.
Jiayi W.
Zhen Ni C.
Sky S.
Eran E.
David T.
Benedeta G.
Jie San Jenny T.
Kathryn I.
Marina Y.
Jillian K.
5
All School News
2nd Quarter Honor Rolls
(Continued)
Honor Roll
GRADE 9
Beatrice D.
Luciana F.
Olav H.
Jeong Hoon O.
Valentina D
Levi F.
Lorela H.
Carl S. G.
Stefano Z.
Grade 10
Murad A.
Sanne D.
Hojae K.
Martina M.
Adriano A.
Janosch F.
Sofia K.
Peter N.
Claudia A.
Connor F.
Anna L.
Yoon Jung P.
Asia C.
Yael I.
Jacopo L.
Sisi Z.
Annalisa D.
Alexandra J.
Alice M.
Yi Fan Z.
Grade 11
Richard B.
Leonardo D.
Ieva G.
Giulia O.
Jason D.
Khaizer D.
Hannele H.
Cindy .
Elena D.
Elliott E.
Omri I.
Benny R.
Grade 12
Ryan A.
Massimiliano D.
Lorenzo L.
Daniela M.
Ezio B.
Grazia D.
Federico M.
Thomas N.
Andrew C
Gabriele F.
Luka M.
Giuseppe S.
Joey D. B.
Shira G.
Seth M.
Shi Ji Y.
Congratulations to all of our Honor Students!
6
All School News
Understanding Misbehavior in Children
Tips for ES school age (though sometimes it works for older kids too!)
by Ms. Bettasso-Escobar, M.A., M.Ed, School Counselor
(With excerpts from the University of New Hampshire, Family Development Fact Sheet)
Tell them HOW they have helped contribute to the
family.
5) Provide positive choices such as, " You can play on
the computer for one hour, but then you can ride your
bike or play a game? Which would you like to do?"
And avoid saying “don’t” instead of “do”. “Don’t leave
your shoes in the hallway” is less likely to change
behavior than if you say, “Please be sure to put your
shoes away”.
6) When possible, keep routines consistent as this helps
them develop healthy trust.
7) Make sure you have consistent rules but don't have
too many.
8) Explain the reason for any rules you have. Kids are
more likely to follow rules if they understand them
and, it helps them act correctly when an adult is not
present.
9) Include them in coming up with the rules that you
BOTH can live with.
10) Model the behavior YOU would like to see in
them.
All children will "misbehave" from time to time, but it
is important to remember a few valuable things when
this occurs. Begin by asking yourself, "Why might my
child be acting like this? What reasons may be behind
his/her actions?" If you start there, you are more likely
to help change the behavior.
The following are tips that many have found helpful:
Begin by asking yourself the following questions:
1) Does your child understand the rules in your
household?
2) Does your child forget things easily? Gentle
reminders can go a long way.
3) Is your child involved in an activity when you
address them, such as reading a book, watching TV or
playing on the computer? Be sure to get eye contact
when you are serious about asking them to do
something.
4)Do you expect too much of your child? Is the
behavior you are looking for age-stage appropriate?
5) Is your child having a bad day? Kids have bad days
too.
6) Is your child trying to get your attention? For
example, does complaining get the child a later bed
time or another piece of cake?
7) Is your child copying behavior they have seen in
you, other adults or on TV?
8) Does your child show independence?
9) Does your child feel badly about him/herself? If you
cannot get a "read" on your child, ask his/her teachers,
counselors or other school personnel if they have any
concerns.
10) Is your child learning from his/her behavior? Do
you see positive changes occurring?
When there is misbehavior, you can do the following:
1) Respond vs. React. Responding is calmly stating,
without any "put down's" what it is you need from
them. Reacting is yelling or punishing them with
silence, both which can be very shaming.
2) Ignore misbehavior that is not harmful and intervene
calmly if bad behavior escalates.
3) Teach your children how to handle their anger.
Encourage them to talk about it if they are feeling
angry. Tell them that it is ok to be angry but not ok to
STAY angry. Give them time to think about ways to
make things better. Kids from 5-8 still have a hard time
seeing another person’s point of view.
4) Respond to the behavior and not the child. Don't call
your children names or make fun of them.
5) Redirect kids when they are acting out. For example,
"you cannot buy that video because it is too violent.
You can pick another one that has action, but no
violence".
These questions can help you meet your child's needs.
And, if you are looking to help PREVENT
misbehavior, try these tips:
1) Increase the number of hugs you give your child.
Tell them you love them.
2) Ask them questions about how they feel about
things.
3) Ask them questions about things they like and don't
like.
4) Encourage good behavior. Ask them to help you
with tasks because this can make them feel competent
and valued. Don't belittle them if they don't get it right.
Remember that discipline is about teaching new
behaviors, not humiliating the child, as that only causes
pain and confusion. Think about why your child may
be misbehaving, how you can prevent it from
happening again and how you can respond in ways that
will help teach your child a positive lesson. If you
would like to set up an appointment, please feel free to
contact me directly at [email protected].
7
All School News
Join us in the...
1st Annual Rome Conference on Emotional Well-Being
Saturday, March 28, 2009
“The Ohana Counseling Center is pleased to announce the
1st annual Rome Conference on Emotional Well-Being for
Youth.
This one-day conference will present an
opportunity for parents, educators and mental health
professionals to interact with a distinguished panel of
international experts in the fields of childhood
development, eating disorders, youth anxiety, suicide
prevention and depression, bullying, alcohol and drug
abuse, and learning difficulties.
Ambrit Rome
International School, a recognized leader in international primary and
secondary education, is proud to be a co-sponsor of this event. The conference
will be held Saturday, March 28, 2009 at the Ambrit Rome International
School campus from 9:00 to 16:00. The cost for the entire conference will be
65 Euros for the general public and 55 Euros for educators affiliated with any
of Rome’s many international schools. Each registrant will receive an
electronic copy of each lecture and presentation that they attend, lunch, and onsite parking.”.
To register and for further information please contact Elizabeth Escobar, AOSR
School Counselor at [email protected] or Ms. Domenica Losani, AOSR
Secretary at [email protected].
After School Activities
After School Cheerleading practice at AOSR.
Instructors Kristi Valla and Teresa Connolly.
Practicing for a basketball game between AOSR and Marymount on February 6th.
8
Community Service Project
Happy News in a Troubled World
By Mr. Roy Zimmerman
also workmen and materials to repair poor
houses, while a big free meal (feijoada) is
offered and musicians play on the street.
Street children are attracted by all the
excitement, and are immediately recruited
as helpers. By the end of the day,
friendships have been built, and the artists
then return on a regular basis, offering
workshops with the kids, beginning with
art and music, but then adding other more
academic subjects, eventually luring them
into formal ICBIE courses.
This original grassroots approach
has received enthusiastic support. The
city of Bologna has agreed to match the
funds offered by the city of Salvador, and
the program began last month, with a big
artistic invasion of the sprawling slums of
the Massaranduba district of Salvador,
which is less than a mile from the ICBIE.
Their “happening” (multirão) was a huge
success, and large groups of children are
already involved in the project. Plans are
now underway to develop the program in
other cities of Brazil and South America!
Initiatives such as this are
remarkable because they are the
expression of true international
cooperation. Julio and Bigode, through
their instruction at the ICBIE and their
visits to Europe, were able to escape the
narrow confines of their impoverished
neighborhood. Now they are empowered,
able to return to their own people and
make meaningful change, offering hope
Despite the global economic maelstrom,
our little community in Salvador de Bahia
continues to thrive, thanks to everdeepening bonds of friendship and a
growing support for the innovative work
of the ICBIE. AOSR students, faculty
and administration continue to devise new
ways to help, raising funds but also
fostering a greater understanding and
compassion for the disadvantaged people
of the Third World.
The credit crunch has crippled the
Brazilian economy and the miserable
conditions of millions of poor people will
get worse. The ICBIE has faced a dire
financial crisis, too, but in the end it was a
positive shock that mobilized friends and
supporters. A fund-raising drive met its
goal of €10,000 (with a hefty share
coming from the AOSR community),
permitting lessons to continue, and the city
government has leased our computer lab
and an art studio during the morning,
when our classes are not in session. This
provides the Institute with a stable
income—for the first time! But the most
exciting development comes, once again,
from the wonderful ICBIE artists, Julio
and Bigode.
During Julio’s second visit to Italy
last spring, he and ICBIE founder Pietro
Gallina went to Bologna with a proposal
for a new project to help the street
children of the favelas. In this plan,
graffiti artists organize an event in a
dreary slum: they bring their paints, but
and inspiration to young kids.
photos by Paranaguá
9
PTO News
Important Upcoming PTO Events
PTO General Meeting – Monday, March 16th – 9:15-11:15 in the
Villa Conference Room
Topic “Successful Parenting for Prosperous Families”
based on the Book Children of Paradise by Lee Hausner, Ph.D
Discussion led by our own Dr. George Grunfeld.
Everyone is welcome to attend the discussion.
PTO Parent Evening Session – Wednesday, March 25th at 19:00 in the cafeteria
“The influence of the drug and alcohol culture on our teens.”
Special speaker – Mark Webb from Drug Enforcement Agency
Mayfair 2009:
SAVE THE DATE!!!
Saturday May 9th, 11:00-16:00
Games, Food, Raffle, Book Sale
and More!
The success of the MAYFAIR depends largely
on the support of volunteers. If you would like
to help on the day of the this fundraising event,
then please email Elizabeth at
[email protected] or call
06.6781864. We need your help! Thank you!
Help Support the PTO by shopping at the Boutique and eating at the Booster Bar
Have a Hamburger or a Hot Dog
at the Booster Bar on Fridays
Open at 14:45
AOSR Boutique
Buy and sell used items.
Open
Tuesdays: 9:30 - 13:00
Fridays: 15:00 - 16:30
UPCOMING BOOSTER BARS PROFITS
SUPPORT THE FOLLOWING GROUPS
AOSR Logo items such as
t-shirts and sweatshirts are
also available at the Boutique!
March 6
March 13
March 20
March 27
Thursday, April 2
10
MS MAIS choir
Soccer (Girls and Boys)
Elementary School
NHS
Pre-K (no school Friday, April 3rd)
Pre-K and Kindergarten News
Pre-K
by Ms. Magazzu, Pre-K Coordinator
recycled materials to construct a dining
room, living room, and bedroom. They
explored various materials and decided
The Chipmunks (PreK 4) have been
constructing elaborate
neighborhoods during
their small group
time.
The project
began with a field trip
to Via Sesto Miglio
and the GS, nearby
our school.
The
children used digital cameras to take
pictures of the places and objects that
interested them. Back in the classroom,
they discussed these pictures and began to
brainstorm ideas for building their own
neighborhoods. A key aspect of this
project included the use of recycled
materials such as boxes of different shapes
and sizes, plastic containers, bottle tops,
empty tape rolls, cardboard tubes, corks,
etc. The project has continued throughout
the month of February, as the children are
very involved and continually come up
with new ideas to enhance their
neighborhoods! The Chipmunks have
been working in three groups and each
group will give a ‘tour’ of their
neighborhood to teachers and friends.
They are also looking forward to sharing
their work with their 4th grade reading
buddies!
what would be best for the objects they
thought Dixie would need – a table, couch,
a television, a bed. The Ducks enjoy
deciding what room Dixie should spend
her mornings in, as well as having her take
a nap along with them during rest time!
Both Chipmunks and Ducks will be
visiting the Explora Museum on March 4th
where they will participate in an
interactive exhibit about recycling and
taking care of our environment.
The Ducks (Pre-K 3) recently finished a
three-room house for their take-home
friend, Dixie the Duck. After deciding
that Dixie needed a place to stay when she
is in the classroom, the Ducks used
11
Elementary School News
Kindergarten
Third Grade
Ms. Antinucci and Ms. Bleecher
Ms. Gist and Ms. Wheeler
Our science unit for this spring month is
“Growing and Gardens”. The Middle school
students in the “Go Green” group came to our
classroom to read to us and will be working
with us. We will learn what a living thing is,
how plants grow, what they need to grow,
how we prepare a garden for planting and
what things grow in different seasons.
Studying our geometry unit coincided with
Valentine’s Day, and so we used heart shapes
to create symmetrical designs.
This month the students will visit the
Sculpture collection of the Capitoline
Museums at the Centrale Montemartini. This
field trip covers the disciplines of art, history
and science as the masterpieces of antique
sculpture are on exhibit side by side with the
original machinery of the first Roman power
plant.
We will be searching for green leprechauns
on March 17th, St. Patrick’s Day.
In preparation for the Book Publishing Project
the students are learning about the skills of
writing an interesting story: planning with
graphic organizers, writing, proofreading and
writing the final copy.
First Grade
Mr. Etcheverry and Ms. Tausend
The first grade students are looking forward
to the month of March. We are finishing up
our “Polar Habits” study and will be moving
on to examine the animals that live in deserts
and savannas. We are continuing our
investigation of word families and common
spelling patterns. We are excited about
St.Patrick’s Day. Will we catch the
leprechaun in our leprechaun traps? We hope
so.
Fourth Grade
Ms. De Paolis and Ms. Piccirilli
On March 11th the students will take part in
the annual RISA Music Festival which is
being hosted by Ambrit International school.
The students will be able to explore and
celebrate the many elements that make up
music. They will attend different workshops
in the morning and then take part in the
sharing session of all the workshops of the
day.
Second Grade
Ms. Ciuffreda and Ms. Musler
The second graders learned an Italian folk
dance, “La Tarantella”, which they performed
in costume on the Carnevale/Valentine’s
party day.
The students will be attending a performance
of “Cinderella” at Teatro Verde on March 2nd.
Later this month they will visit the Prehistoric
section of the Pigorini National museum. This
trip will bring their studies on Early Man to
life as they see fossils, skeletons, pots, tools
and weapons made of bronze and iron.
The fourth graders have been detectives as
they wrote mystery stories with clues for their
characters to follow. The final copies will be
typed and printed out during technology class.
In science we have commenced the unit on
weather and are fortunate to experience
almost four seasons in one day at times in
Rome!
12
Elementary School News
by Ms. Di Cori, Ms. Dooner and Ms. Rumsby
Fifth grade have been conducting in-depth
studies of a mammal of their choice. They
have learned about behavior, habitat, status,
genus, reproduction and their place in the
food chain.
They have then used the
information they acquired and built it into a
project which they are presenting to the entire
Elementary School.
Ashton G. explaining her polar bear project.
We have some amazing models, wonderful
paintings and drawings, recordings of
animals and a group of very well-informed
students.
They are presenting their projects in the
form of a zoo, and each ‘zoo keeper, has to
explain about their animal to the visitors.
They must know 10 of facts by heart.
They are also learning to adapt their
vocabulary to their audience, which will
help them to develop their oral skills and
gain poise and confidence.
On March 5th, Fifth Grade Students will be
working with Art Studio Café’ to make a
three panel mosaic representing Ancient
Rome in collaboration with the ‘Comune di
Tommaso D. is explaining why the
Platypus is his favorite mammal.
Rome’. This will be a splendid opportunity
for our students to learn the ancient skill of
mosaic making from experts but also to
participate as the only International School
in the ‘NATALE DI ROMA” competition.
We are also making a Roman Soldier made
from recycled cans and an ancient Roman
siege weapon. Keep your fingers crossed
for our success!
Rebecca C. is explaining her Chinese
Hamster Project. She has her own
Chinese Hamster at home.
13
Elementary School News
News from the ES Library
by Ms. Popp, ES Librarian
Caroline Lawrence, author of the Roman
Mysteries series of books, will be visiting
AOSR on Wednesday, March 18th and
will talking to grades three through six
about her books as well as her writing
process. Ms. Lawrence will also answer
questions and sign her books. Her books
will be on sale, courtesy of The Lion
Bookstore.
Jikke D. – Grade 3 – Ms. Wheeler
Ragad Al-Sarraf – Grade 3 – Ms. Wheeler
Seif Roushdy – Grade 5 – Ms. Dooner
Otis Reale – Grade 5 – Ms. Dooner
The following students participated in the
Author of the Month program:
January, 2009
Mary C. – Kindergarten – Ms. Bleecher
Cristina R. – Grade 2 – Ms. Musler
Ori. – Grade 2 – Ms. Musler
Carlotta D. – Grade 2 – Ms. Musler
Martina C. – Grade 2 – Ms. Ciuffreda
Maria C. – Grade 2 – Ms. Ciuffreda
Omri D. – Grade 2 – Ms. Ciuffreda
Gregorio M. – Grade 2 - Ms. Ciuffreda
Lorenzo. – Grade 3 – Ms. Wheeler
Thomas P. – Grade 5 – Ms. Dooner
Caroline D. – Grade 5 – Ms. Dooner
Rebecca C. – Grade 5 – Ms. Dooner
Saverio M. – Grade 5 – Ms. Rumsby
Mohammed A. – Grade 5 – Ms. DiCori
The Elementary School Library has
received over eighty new books, thanks to
a generous grant from the PTO. A few
new titles include Counting on Frank by
Rod Clement, The Spiderwick Chronicles
by Tony DiTerlizzi, Twilight (as well as
the rest of the series) by Stephenie Meyer,
Inkdeath by Cornelia Funke, and Guinness
World Records 2008. All books are in the
library, ready to be checked out.
As in previous months, many students
have participated in Star Librarian
program and Author of the Month
program.
February, 2009
Ori M. – Grade 2 – Ms. Musler
Anthony D. – Grade 2 – Ms. Musler
Maria C. – Grade 2 – Ms. Ciuffreda
Omri D. – Grade 2 – Ms. Ciuffreda
Gregorio M. – Grade 2 - Ms. Ciuffreda
Seif R. – Grade 5 – Ms. Dooner
The following students were Star
Librarians:
January, 2009
Stefano C. – Grade 5 – Ms. Rumsby
Yahel W. – Grade 3 – Ms. Gist
Romy F. – Grade 3 – Ms. Gist
Ofir S. – Grade 3 – Ms. Gist
Please congratulate these outstanding
young readers from AOSR!
February, 2009
Ori M. – Grade 2 – Ms. Musler
Cristina R. – Grade 2 – Ms. Musler
Ofir S. – Grade 3 – Ms. Gist
14
Middle School News
Carnevale Celebration!
The Middle School Students prepared for this year’s Carnevale season in a
number of ways. The STUCO wanted to organize a dance which would have
record attendance and for that reason, created a way for students to request and
vote for their favorite songs to be played by DJ Maurizio. Festive treats, such as
frappe e castagnole, along with the usual fruit, snacks, pizza and drinks were
served to fuel the dancers.
In addition, the 6th graders in their art classes the week prior to Settimana
Bianca designed and constructed their own personal Carnevale themed masks.
Photos of the masks taken by Sylvia Bloem, Art teacher.
MS Spring SPIRIT Week Planned!
The STUCO has set the dates for this year’s fun and busy SPIRIT Week. March 23 – 27
will be a week filled with students wearing crazy clothes, contests and will conclude with the annual
Middle School BBQ, Talent Show and Dance. Students are encouraged to begin rehearsing their act
of talent, may it be dancing, signing, magic or beyond! More information about the specific Spirit
Days, as well as how to register for the Talent Show will be coming soon.
Listowel Choir Visit and Performance
On Tuesday morning, March 17th, the students of AOSR Middle School will welcome and
enjoy the musical talents of the Listowel High School Choir. The choir comes from Listowel,
Ontario in Canada and their group travels each spring to share their voices with people all over the
world. For certain, the visit will be a highlight for the students and an inspiration for our own
singers.
MAIS Honor Choir Set to Travel
A group of Middle School singers are preparing their voices and travel itineraries for the
annual MAIS Honor Choir Festival being held this year in Madrid, Spain. The group will travel
April 22 - 26 to sing with fellow middle years singers from schools throughout the Mediterranean
area. A special Booster Bar has been designated for March 6th and Mrs. Sarah Stephens welcomes
all parent helpers. If you are able to help, please contact her at [email protected].
15
Middle School News - continued...
Five Faculty Members Attended the European League of Middle Level Educators
Annual Conference hosted by the American School of Paris, January 29 - 31.
The group included all of the AOSR Middle School English teachers, Autumn Zangrilli,
Wendy Pestilli and Jessica Adams, who were actively engaged in pre-conference and
conference sessions relating to vocabulary development. Tara Rummel, Science teacher,
participated in a day-long pre-conference session which focused on motivating students, and
was extremely connected to the offerings relating to internet education to help students better
de-code internet sources. Sarah Ellyson, MS Coordinator, attended a pre-conference on the
developmental levels of pre-adolescents, presented to fellow teachers about the AOSR Mix It
Up program, as well as became inspired by teaming work amongst faculty members. The group
was eager to share their new information with their Middle School colleagues at their February
faculty meeting.
Middle School Ski Trip
Students and teachers returned from this year’s Middle School Ski Trip with
smiles, tanned faces and many fabulous memories. The organizer and chaperone,
Mr. Mancini, along with Mrs. Cullen-Moore, chaperoned a joyful group of students to Campo Felice di Lucoli. There they had four full days of skiing, snowboarding, lessons and activities in the cool, sunny days of Settimana Bianca. The
following are some of their favorite moments:
“The funniest thing was to see Mr. Mancini in his ski outfit!”
“…watching the girls defeat the boys in the table soccer tournament.”
“The funniest thing in the ski week was… when we were lost before lunch, we recognized where we
needed to go by Mr. Mancini’s ski jacket!”
“The best part was when I won the foosball tournament”
The funniest part was the table soccer tournament and Simon was so hyper that made everybody
laughed.”
A special, heartfelt thank you to Mr. Mancini, Mrs. Cullen-Moore and Mr. Reale who all attended the ski trip, making it such a success for all who attended.
16
Counselor’s Corner
by Ms. Welch, High School College Counselor
College & University Corner
Now that the dust is starting to settle on the college admission process for the
senior class, it is time to shift focus to: JUNIORS!!
Two college planning events designed to provide you with all of the necessary information include:
Junior Jumpstart for all 11th grade students
on March 10, 2009 during the academic day
Junior Parent Kick-off: College Orientation Night
th
on March 17 at 19:00 (7pm) in the High School Library
Both of these events will serve as an introduction to the college planning process. Workshop topics will
include: components of an application (personal statement/ essay, teacher reference letter, transcript),
standardized & college admission tests, college visits, search and selection resources, and much more.
11th Graders Should Register for the upcoming
SAT and Subject Tests
ALL 11th graders should consider taking the SAT even if the student is not sure whether he/she will go
to college in the United States. Many of the UK, Canadian, and European Universities expect AOSR
students to have an SAT score because we are an American High School.
Test date: May 2nd
Register by: March 31st
or
th
Register by: May 5th
Test date: June 6
You must register ONLINE at: www.collegeboard.com
AOSR’s TEST CENTER Number is 58380 which you use to select the testing location.
The CEEB Code is 748480 and you will use this number to indicate the high school you currently
attend. It will also send a copy of your results to the College Counseling Office.
Testing begins on Saturday morning at 7:45 and ends around 13:00. As discussed at
the PSAT meeting, it is an extreme advantage to take this test in the spring—please do
not wait until the fall of next year.
TEST PREPARATION with the Official SAT Online Course purchased by
AOSR
is still available to all juniors!
Stop by Ms. Welch’s office to pick up your registration card and instructions.
17
Counselor’s Corner (continued)
Course Registration for Next Year
Students will begin the course selection process during the week of March 9, 2009.
Each grade will receive a registration form with the courses listed on it that are available to that
grade.
Students will take the form around to teachers for signatures and recommendations as necessary.
Registration forms must be brought home for parent/guardian approval and signature after all
teachers have made their recommendations.
Registration forms are due on Friday, March 27, 2009.
REMINDER: SENIOR PROTRAITS
This is a reminder to seniors and their parents, to review
the packets for senior portraits handed out before ski
week. If you are interested in this service, please make an
appointment with Rochelle Cheever.
Her email is [email protected].
Tech Bytes
by Mr. Geoff Miller, Director of Technology
Technology at AOSR has continued to grow and
flourish! The routine and daily use of the computer
labs, Internet and classroom resources is at an all
time high. And of course, students and faculty
always want more.
The PTO has been especially helpful is providing
additional technology for the entire school. A recent
grant is a good example of this. Because of their
generosity, we have recently added the following:
standards-based curriculum designed to meet the
needs of students for the 21st Century.” One of the
primary methods that we need to employ to
accomplish this goal is through the use of current
teaching techniques and strategies that employ
effective and reliable technology in the classroom.
Digital cameras in all Elementary classrooms
Video projectors being installed in:
ο Elementary Library
ο High School Library
ο Cafeteria
With the completed installation of the equipment
listed above during the month of March, we will
have 15 classrooms and community areas equipped
with video projectors. Our long range target is to
see that all classrooms have this important
instructional tool available for their use. Keep
checking the Falcon Flyer for more updates as we
continue to improve and respond to the needs of the
AOSR community.
The importance of this growth in technology, and its
expanded use, cannot be understated. Our first
strategic goal clearly states, “AOSR will develop a
If you have any questions on the information in this
article, please contact me directly at:
[email protected]
•
•
18
Sports Update
by Ms. Fucillo and Mr. Harroo, Athletic Directors
The winter season is officially over and what a season it has been!
Winter sports season is finally over. It was a very successful season and all
participating sports teams did well. Wrestling had one European qualifier,
Omri I. who although wrestled incredibly well was forced out due to injury.
Girls basketball finished their season with a record of 7-8. The Boys
basketball finished their season with a record of 13-5 and placed second in the
European DoDDS Championships, losing by only 4 points to Baumholder. It
is the first time in the school’s history any basketball team has played in the
finals. Ryan A. and Ezio B. received All Tournament honors. Cheer did well
but not place but Cindy P. received All Tournament.
Soccer season is starting and all interested athletes are encouraged to try out.
The first game is the weekend of the 21st of March. Go Falcons!!!
19
Il Foro
Calling Mothers of Daughters…
“Get out of my life but first take me to the mall…”, “Are you wearing that?”
Are you the Mother of a Daughter? Do you sometimes wonder why she wants to
tell you everything one minute and clams up the next? Do you find yourself rolling your eyes when she chooses to wear certain outfits? Do you understand the
lyrics to the songs she listens to??? Are you tired of her friends being more important than everything else in the world?
If you can relate to these questions, then this group is for you!!! Call Elizabeth Escobar, M.A., M.Ed
at 338 7104752 or email her at [email protected] or Claudia Sobral at [email protected] or
338 5924561 for further information and/or to sign up. The first meeting will be held on Thursday,
March 12th from 9:30-10:30. We look forward to fun and helpful sessions. The program is divided
into 4 sessions. (Minimum number of participants is 6 and maximum is 12).
Registration for the Komer race for the cure walk can be made at any location/shop
that has the poster outside or at the AOSR Boutique. Anna will be in charge of
collecting completed forms and money (minimum 10 euros per participant). This can
be done on Tuesdays from 9:30 until 10:30 or on Fridays from 15:00 to 15:30.
Remember: you can still contribute for a great cause even if you won't participate in
the walk. All the money will be given to the Komer Foundation, the sponsors will
provide the goody bags and T shirts. Registrations are open to everyone, infants too!!
20
Il Foro continued...
TEATRO VITTORIA
ATTORI & TECNICI
Teatro Stabile di Interesse Pubblico
00153 ROMA
Piazza S. Maria Liberatrice, 10
Direzione Teatro tel. 065781960
r.a.
Botteghino tel. 065740170 r.a.
Fax 065759935
On Saturdays at 16:30 and Sundays at 11:00
(January-April 2009)
Special morning performances for schools by appointment
di Teresa Pascarelli (AOSR Parent)
con Lorenza Damiani, Annalisa Di Nola, Stefano Messina, Andrea Meta, Teresa
Pascarelli
regia di Stefano Messina
Don’t worry: capirai tutto, even if you don’t understand
Italian! And it’s fun!
Nuts - che vuol dire 'pazzi', 'schizzati', 'matti da legare' - è una proposta teatrale
davvero rivoluzionaria nel suo genere: 80 minuti di gags, canzoni e risate, perfettamente
godibili da un pubblico che va dagli 11 ai 111 anni, durante i quali imparare allegramente
l'inglese, agevolati nella comprensione dall'uso contemporaneo dell'italiano.
Dopo 10 anni di esperienza come autrice di testi e programmi televisivi volti ad
introdurre alla lingua inglese i ragazzi italiani, l’attrice di formazione statunitense Teresa
Pascarelli, con la collaborazione di Stefano Messina, porta per la prima volta in teatro il
dialogo didattico bilingue, collaudato con successo nei programmi tv che ha ideato e
scritto per Stream, Rai Educational e MIUR (Tracy & Polpetta).
Il format è quello classico della sitcom. Cornice della storia, il folle appartamento di
Beatrice, squattrinata restauratrice di mobili antichi. Qui vivono Sara e Lorenzo, due
studenti universitari che, senza avvertire la padrona di casa, introducono un terzo
inquilino, Michele. La sua presenza darà luogo a una serie infinita di pittoreschi equivoci
che culmineranno con l'arrivo della sua futura suocera, la signora Maria...
Nel dipanarsi agile e leggero della trama, le vicissitudini di questo disperato manipolo di
sognatori disegnano progressivamente un ritratto efficace della profonda confusione
emotiva in cui vivono le generazioni del 2000, affrontando i molti problemi con cui i
giovani del nostro tempo si confrontano quotidianamente: l'inserimento nella scuola e
nel mondo del lavoro, la ricerca di una propria identità, la convivenza tra diverse culture,
la famiglia, l'amore.
ridotto € 7,00 - intero € 10,00
Alessandra Cotogno
Ufficio Promozione
-------------------------------------------------------
Tel. +39 06 5781960 int. 201
Fax +39 06 5759935
Mail: [email protected]
21
AOSR Contact Information
Switchboard:
Head of School:
Secretary:
Secondary Principal:
Secretary:
Elementary Principal:
Secretary:
PreK Coordinator:
ES Coordinator:
MS Coordinator:
AP/IB Coordinator:
Admissions Secretary:
Busing:
Business Manager:
HS College Counselor:
School Counselor:
Nurse:
After School Activities:
Resource Room:
Athletics:
Zoë Hili
Dr. Beth Pfannl
Domenica Losani
Thomas Connolly
Cathy Garbinsky
Dr. George Grunfeld
Joanne Hoberg
Amy Magazzu
Susan Prideaux
Sarah Ellyson
Belinda Fiochi
Manuela Ciocca
Kieran Canter
Elisa Bruno
Sharice Welch
Elizabeth Escobar
Diane Cullen-Moore
Christine Hogan, Margaret Ciuffreda
Silvia Moore (ES)
Jeff Phillips (MS/HS)
Linda Fuccillo
06-33438-300
06-33438-331
06-33438-331
06-33438-326
06-33438-326
06-33438-395
06-33438-395
06-33438-330
06-33438-350
06-33438-336
06-33438-337
06-33438-311
06-33438-372
06-33438-338
06-33438-327
06-33438-373
06-33438-321
06-33438-320
06-33438-302
06-33438-390
06-33438-313
Stefan Harroo
06-33438-340
All parent telephone and email address corrections should be
sent to [email protected].
22
March, 2009
4
Wednesday
5
Thursday
6
Friday
7
Saturday
AOSR
3
14
Tuesday
13
2
12
Monday
PreK 3 and 4 to Explora
Museum, 10:00-14:00
11
Assembly, One-Act
Plays, 14:00, cafeteria
One-Act Plays, 19:00,
cafeteria
AOSR Soccer at Aviano
21
Sunday
10
Grades 2 & 3 to Teatro Girls, Boys Varsity
Verde, 9:15-12:00
Soccer Tryouts,
1530-1545
Girls, Boys Varsity
Soccer Tryouts,
1530-1545
9
Junior Jump Start for
Grade 4 to RISA at
Students, 12:00-14:00, Ambrit
HS Li
RISA Early Childhood
Meeting, PreK 3 & 4,
9:00
19
One-Act Plays, 19:00,
cafeteria
17
18
16
27
28
26
Annual MS BBQ,Talent
Show,Dance, 5:30-2230,
Quad
25
Spring Concert for ES
only, 9:30, cafeteria
Spring Concert for
Parents, 19.00,
cafeteria
AOSR Soccer at Firenze
PK 3 & 4 Fathers &
Special Friends
Breakfast, 8:15
Junior Jump Start for
Parents, 19:00, HS
Library
24
31
HS Italian IV to Teatro Spanish Induction
Quarter 3 Ends
Ghione, 9:15 to 1:30
Society Ceremony, 9:30,
cafeteri
MS Assembly, Listowel
Visiting Author Carol
HS Choir Canada, 9:15, Lawrence, Grades 3-6
caf
23-27
PTO Meeting, with Dr.
Grunfeld, 9:15,
cafeteria
23
MS Spirit Week,
30
20
1
8
15
22
Quarter 4 Begins
29
National Honor Society
Assembly, 9:30,
cafeteria